The US Attorney failed to appear and file formal charges against Rev. Mahoney

Government Refuses to File Charges Against Christian Leader Who was Arrested for Praying on a Public Sidewalk in Washington, D.C.

WASHINGTON, June 30 /Christian Newswire/ -- During the arrangement of Rev. Patrick Mahoney in Washington, D.C., the US Attorney failed to appear and file formal charges against Rev. Mahoney for his June 8 arrest on a public sidewalk in front of a Planned Parenthood in Washington, D.C. 

This action by the Department of Justice indicates that Rev. Mahoney was clearly praying on a public sidewalk and his actions did not violate the law. 

These actions also demonstrate that the City of Washington, D.C. erred in arresting Rev. Mahoney for simply expressing his First Amendment rights in the public square and that Planned Parenthood is misleading pro-life activists by saying the sidewalk in front of their clinic is "private." 

The Christian Defense Coalition plans a major event at Planned Parenthood, Washington, D.C. August 13-14 in which people will join in prayer on the public sidewalk where Rev. Mahoney was arrested. 

Rev. Patrick J. Mahoney, Director of the Christian Defense Coalition, comments,

"It was a disgrace and an outrage that the City of Washington, D.C. arrested me for praying on a public sidewalk in front of Planned Parenthood. It was clear that I did not violate the law for simply celebrating my free speech and First Amendment rights in the public square. 

"The US Attorney did not file formal charges because they recognized this also. They knew it would be laughable to try to prosecute a minister for praying on the public sidewalk. We now call upon the City of Washington, D.C. to stop intimidating and harassing peaceful citizens who simply want to publicly pray and counsel. 

"On August 13-14, we will be calling people to come join the Christian Defense Coalition and pray with us on the sidewalk at Planned Parenthood. Our prayer and hope is that our nation's capital will choose to celebrate free speech and not crush it."

For more information or interviews call: 

Rev. Patrick J. Mahoney at 540.538.4741 

USCCB News release: “Why marriage is and can only be the union of one man and one woman”

'Unique for a Reason'

USCCB News Release 
June 29, 2010 

WASHINGTON -- The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops' Ad Hoc Committee for the Defense of Marriage has launched a new initiative for the protection of marriage, entitledMarriage: Unique for a Reason. The initiative is to help catechize and educate Catholics on the meaning of marriage as the union of one man and one woman. 

The launch comes with the release of the first of five videos. The first video is called Made for Each Other and includes a Viewer's Guide and Resource Booklet. It explores sexual difference and the complementarity between man and woman as husband and wife in marriage. Later videos will treat the good of children, the good of society and what constitutes discrimination, religious liberty, and issues particular to a Latino/a audience. 

"The Committee's efforts are grounded in the recognition that marriage, as the union of one man and one woman, is at the heart of a flourishing society and culture," said Archbishop Joseph Kurtz of Louisville, Kentucky, chairman of the Committee. "The truth of marriage lies at the very core of a true concern for justice and the common good. Promoting marriage is crucial to the New Evangelization. These initial materials seek to provide a key starting point, a compass, for assisting Catholics and all people of good will in understanding why marriage is and can only be the union of one man and one woman." 

The DVD, guide, and booklet are intended for use by priests, deacons, catechists, teachers and other leaders. Potential uses include instruction for young adult groups, adult faith formation, and seminary and diaconate education. 

For materials online, Click Here. 

To purchase from USCCB Publishing, Click Here.

Summer Soirée Excitement!

Mary's Shelter June Newsletter Vol. 2, No. 6 Greetings! We have been very busy the last few months preparing for our Summer Soirée and Fundraiser on August 13th.  We are new to this kind of fundraising and are so grateful to our loyal supporters who have been helping us along the way.  We are excited about the positive direction in which we are moving at Mary's Shelter, which is evident by the success of so many of our residents.  Please read about some of the wonderful changes our ladies have made in their lives.  These important milestones and successes would not have been possible without your prayers and support.  Thank you for helping these women to hope for more. Looking forward to seeing everyone on the 13th! God Bless.   Kathleen Wilson, Director "Look at the mothers who truly love their children: how many sacrifices they make for them. They are ready for everything, even to give their own blood so that their babies grow up good, healthy and strong. " -St. Gianna Beretta Molla SAVE THE DATE  Friday, August 13th, 2010 7-9 pm     Summer Soirée and Fundraiser  in support of  Mary's Shelter,  homes for women facing a crisis pregnancy   Guest Speaker - Ken Cuccinelli, Attorney General of Virginia  Master of Ceremonies - David Bereit, National Director of 40 Days for Life   Venue graciously provided by St. Michael the Archangel High School, Fredericksburg, VA   Please contact info@marysshelterva.org or call 540 623 5778 for more information. Proudly Introducing Baby Nadia, born 6/17/10    Photograph courtesy of Lori Elizabeth Photography Resident Profiles The following are profiles of some of our current residents.  All names are fictitious.  MONICA:  Monica has had a difficult first month at Mary's Shelter.  During her last month of pregnancy, the teeth in the back of her mouth began falling out, and the pain was really unbearable.  There was nothing the dentist could do for her until after she delivered her baby, so she suffered for weeks.  Finally, at a routine prenatal appointment, the doctor discovered that her kidneys had stopped working, and so she was induced the same day.  Fortunately, Monica was far enough along in her pregnancy that her baby, Nadia Olivia, suffered no ill effects from the emergency induction.  Less than a week after delivery, Monica was back at the library, doing her on-line college program with a toddler on her lap, a baby in a car seat, and two girls playing at computers beside her.  We are all very impressed by Monica's determination to achieve her goals.  Clearly, little things like oral surgery, kidney malfunction, and childbirth are not going to stop her! PAULINA: Our newest resident, Paulina, needs a lot of prayers.  She came to us from the Hope House where she had failed to get a job, and therefore, could no longer be a part of their program.    She is not very far along in her pregnancy and is, sadly, still very abortion-minded.  This baby will be her fourth child.   She currently has custody of only one child, her youngest who just turned 1.  She has many difficult issues to deal with, and so we would appreciate prayers both for her and her children, as well as for our staff who must discern how best to work with her. ISABEL:  Last month, Isabel passed the GED, a real triumph for our 33 yr. old resident.  This fall, Isabel will be entering Germanna Community College as a full-time student.  She is currently doing volunteer work for Mary's Shelter while she patiently waits for the arrival of her baby boy at the end of July.  We are so proud of her achievement and the good example she is setting for our younger residents that it is never to late to reach your goal if you persevere.   CATHERINE:  Catherine is placid and sincere, genuine yet often expressionless.   She has proven to all of us here at Mary's Shelter that she is the embodiment of the expression, "still waters run deep".  Just a short time ago, she was hospitalized for seizures, was stripped of her driver's license, and was feeling demoralized.  Catherine, however, did not let adversity stand in her way for long.  She applied to Career Training Solutions and was told that if she could pass the entrance exam, she would be awarded a full tuition scholarship.  Catherine has some learning disabilities, so we were worried that she might not pass.  But Catherine was not worried, and she passed!  She has started working at two different jobs and plans to continue working at night while in school.  She has also continued to hold semi-monthly bake sales at Giant, helping to raise over $1200 towards the educational expenses of our residents.  We are very impressed with Catherine's perseverance and positive attitude and now know that behind a mild exterior lies a fiercely determined woman! CELINE:  We wish Celine well as she moves on from Mary's Shelter.  We are going to miss her quirky personality and her great sense of humor.  Celine has decided to move to New Jersey where a cousin has offered her an affordable basement apartment.  She is happy to be closer to her family and is confident she can regain her former job.  Please continue praying for her high-risk pregnancy and that her living arrangement turns out to be as good as it seems. In addition to the moms you have read about, Mary's Shelterprovides homes to other mothers and children.  Please keep themALL in your prayers. Volunteer Corner An Interview with Amanda Lord   Amanda Lord has been an intern at Mary's Shelter for four months. She is the proud birthmother of a 5 yr. old boy and a self-proclaimed pro-life activist.    Q: Please describe your role as an intern at Mary's Shelter.   My role as an intern at Mary's Shelter is sending thank-you notes for donations, keeping an eye on the residents, and doing everything I can to help with the day-to-day function of the home. Q: Tell us a little about your background. I grew up on the Gulf coast of Florida. As the only daughter raised by a single father, I have always been a bit of a tom-boy. I graduated from high school while pregnant and living in a maternity home. When I was 20, I moved to Texas to attend college. Knowing that God was calling me to fight for the lives of pre-born babies, I dropped out and moved to California to be a full-time pro-life activist activist.  Q: What motivated you to want this job? As a pro-life activist, I ask women to not abort their babies. Interning with Mary's Shelter has given me the joy of helping women who decide to let their babies live! Q: What do you feel you have to offer to the residents at Mary's Shelter? My experience with a crisis pregnancy has allowed me to relate to the women because I can understand what it is like to live through such trying times. I understand the enormous pressures of being homeless and pregnant without any hope. But I also know there is a light at the end of the tunnel and I do my best to show them that.  Q: How would you describe you relationship with the residents? I have grown quite close to a couple of the ladies of Mary's Shelter. I strive to be there for the girls to give them advice or just be there for them to talk to.  Each relationship I have with the women of Mary's Shelter is a true blessing. Q: What place does God have in your life? I can say with certainty that if it were not for Jesus Christ, I would not be alive today. He is my Savior and the Lord of my life. Q: What is your dream job? My dream job is to be a housewife and mother while working with women facing crisis pregnancies.  The Mary's Shelter Summer Soirée Decorating Project Do you have an old wooden ladder or rustic wheel barrow?  Would you like to decorate your ladder or wheel barrow and bring it to the Summer Soirée Fundraiser?  If so, or if you are intrigued and would like more information, please contact us atinfo@marysshelterva.org Our Knitting Class Needs Donations!  Please consider a donation of knitting needles or yarn for our semi-monthly knitting classes.  If you are interested in making a donation of supplies, or would like to know what is specifically needed, please contact Ginny Foreman atginnysheller@gmail.com Thank You! *We would like to extend a big thank you and loving farewell toFather John Riley, who has been a tremendous supporter of Mary's Shelter from the very beginning.  We wish him well as he begins the next chapter of his life at the Augustine Institute in Denver, Colorado.  Although we are happy for him and all the lives he will touch in Denver, he will be sorely missed by so many of us here in Virginia. *Thank you to St. John the Beloved Catholic Church for the very generous donation and sponsorship of one of our ladies during her stay at Mary's Shelter.  Thank you also for all the wonderful baby items. We appreciate your support and friendship. *Thank you to Margaret Williamson for helping our residents to host a Pampered Chef party.  All the proceeds, as well as Margaret's commission, went towards the purchase of badly needed cooking supplies for our homes.  We had a great turn-out for the party, and Margaret showed our ladies how to prepare several easy and delicious dishes.  Thank you to everyone who came, and especially to those who couldn't come but placed an order online!  The residents and cooking class instructors are extremely grateful for all the new supplies. *Thank you to Fr. Bjorn Lundberg from St. Mary's Catholic Church for taking part in our Saturday Night Speaker Series.  Fr. Lundberg really has a gift for speaking, which was proven by the mix of tears and laughter around the room.  Our residents desperately need such words of encouragement, wisdom and hope.  We hope you will come back again soon! *A huge thank you to Lori Fowlkes for working so tirelessly on our invitations for the Summer Soirée!  They are truly works of art.  If you would like to see one, make sure you are on our mailing list!  Email your address to: info@marysshelterva.org *We would like to send a big shout-out to AKA Printing and St. Michael the Archangel High School for their incredible out-pouring of help and generosity. *Thanks to Rachel Luciani and the Daisy Troop 3771 for their donations.  We are so thrilled that you could come to the shelter to visit and spend time with some of our tiny residents!

A Final Thank You We are very grateful to the wonderful volunteers, prayer warriors, and donors who are crucial to the survival of Mary's Shelter. Through your ongoing support, we pray that this ministry will continue to foster a culture of life in our community for many years to come. We hope you will continuing praying for the success of our"Fulfill the Promise" Campaign. Please help us by spreading word! For more information about our "Fulfill the Promise" Campaign, please visit our website at www.marysshelterva.org, or simply press the button below. Thank you and may God Bless you! Sincerely, The Directors and Staff of Mary's Shelter

“Quietly spelling the decimation of the black community”

African American auxiliary bishop from Chicago speaks in Sacramento

Chicago Auxiliary Bishop Joseph N. Perry concelebrated a Mass with Sacramento Bishop Jaime Soto on Sunday, June 27, at the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament to celebrate the accomplishments of Catholic African-American college, high school, and eighth grade graduates. 

The Mass was followed by a reception, during which a small group of pro-lifers met with the bishops. The event was sponsored by the Black Catholic Council of the Diocese of Sacramento. 

In his homily, Bishop Perry encouraged the graduates to remain faithful to the Church, to honor their parents, and to avoid the materialistic temptations facing today's youth. 

Bishop Perry, who is African American, has been outspoken in promoting a culture of life and calling attention to the disproportionate number of abortions killing black babies. He is the author of "Abortion and its Impact on the Black Community," a statement posted on the Chicago archdiocese's Office for Black Catholics website. 

In the statement, Bishop Perry quotes African American Auxiliary Bishop Martin D. Holley of Washington, D.C., who noted, "Since the Roe v. Wade decision, the number one cause of death in the African American community is abortion. We have lost 13 million lives. To put that in perspective, that is one third of our present black population. 1,452 black children are lost each day to abortion!" 

Abortion, said Bishop Perry in the statement, "is a topic essentially kept hush-hush in the black community," while "The right to abortion is quietly spelling the decimation of the black community in our society." 

Bishop Perry encouraged parish pro-life activities. "In parishes and in dioceses all over the country Catholics consider the subject of abortion one of the chief witnesses of our modern times for which we are pledged to continue to raise awareness about alternatives to abortion, particularly, to let women in trouble be aware that they have other options," said Bishop Perry in "Abortion and its Impact on the Black Community." 

"We run up against public protest that abortion is a right, a choice, a medical procedure like any other for which women should not be deprived of their reproductive freedom and their right to health care in this vein," said Bishop Perry. "These protestations attempt to deter people from the fundamental truth that a human life is murdered by abortion and based upon conscientious considerations, let alone Christian belief, every life, even one conceived under difficult circumstances deserves a chance." 

One of the largest abortion businesses in California is Family Planning Associates (FPA), founded by Dr. Edward Allred. FPA also operates three of Chicago's largest abortion facilities, which have performed thousands of abortions on black and Hispanic women. 

Allred became a multi-millionaire racetrack owner from the profits of FPA abortions. He openly stated his racist philosophy in a 1980 interview with The San Diego Union. "Take the recent influx of Hispanic immigrants: Their lack of respect for democracy and social order is frightening," he told the newspaper. "I hope I can do something to stem that tide. I'd set up a clinic in Mexico for free if I could. Maybe one in Calexico would help. The survival of our society could be at stake… When a sullen black woman can decide to have a baby and get welfare and food stamps and become a burden to all of us it's time to stop. In parts of South Los Angeles having babies for welfare in the only industry the people have."

From http://www.calcatholic.com/

Join the Pro-Life Freedom Rides this Summer!

 Proclaim Freedom for the Unborn

The pro-life movement is all about freedom. That's why Priests for Life, with the leadership of our Pastoral Associate Dr. Alveda King, is launching "Freedom Rides" for the unborn to galvanize pro-life activity across the country.

During the Civil Rights movement, the "Freedom Rides" constituted a distinctive moment of resolve and unity. The Supreme Court, in its 1960 decision Boynton vs. Virginia, had outlawed segregation in bus terminals and restaurants serving interstate travelers. So the following spring, thirteen people – seven African-Americans and six whites – decided to travel by bus from Washington DC to New Orleans to test the enforcement of that Supreme Court decision.

Along the way, particularly in Alabama, they encountered opposition and violence from those who did not want desegregation. But having been brutally attacked, and some lying with wounds in hospital beds, the "Freedom Riders" vowed that the journey would continue. That's when others joined in, and the initial Freedom Ride became 60 rides across Southern states in the summer of 1961, with some 450 riders participating. And by the fall of that same year, the government issued orders for the enforcement of desegregation at the bus terminals.

The Civil Rights movement and the Pro-Life movement have the same heart and soul: a longing for equal justice for everyone, based on the inherent dignity of every human life. That's why, when Dr. Alveda King first walked with me at the annual March for Life and I asked her, "Does this remind you of the marches in the civil rights movement?" she declared, "Fr. Frank, this is the civil rights movement!" Both movements are movements of freedom.

It is therefore time for Freedom Rides for the unborn. The pro-life movement is more ready than ever to proclaim freedom…

Freedom from the lies and the deceit that allow abortion to continue…
Freedom from the fear of speaking up and taking action for the unborn…
Freedom from the shame and guilt of past involvement in abortion, so that those called to speak up and share their testimonies may do so as people who are "Silent No More"…
Freedom from the political oppression that tramples on human rights and denies equality before the law…
Freedom from violence and death itself.

People will be invited to participate in the Freedom Rides themselves. The bus rides are a symbol of the journey we are on, of the fellowship we share with each other, and of the fact that we are a movement. Major events in cities along the bus routes will be held, in which all the different facets of the pro-life movement will be invited to participate.

At the same time, people not on the rides or along the route can participate by being "Freedom Riders for the Unborn" and carrying out special projects that will be coordinated among Freedom Riders nationwide.

In his first public sermon, Jesus summarized his message and mission by saying he had come to "proclaim liberty to the captives…" As his disciples, as his People of Life, let us do the same!

Fr. Frank Pavone
National Director, Priests for Life

June 30, 2010   Dear Friend of Life,   Because of your deep commitment to the Gospel of Life we wanted to personally invite you to join us for the inaugural and historic Pro-life Freedom Rides Campaign, an initiative of Priests for Life, July 23-24 in Birmingham, AL. and Atlanta, GA.   The Pro-life Freedom Rides Campaign highlights the fact that the pro-life movement is the civil rights movement of our day.   The Freedom Rides Campaign calls people across America to activities that free people from ignorance about abortion, that free moms and dads from the despair that leads to abortion, that free those who have had abortions from the burden of guilt and shame, that free our nation from unjust laws, and that free our unborn brothers and sisters from the violence of abortion.   You may join us in all or any of the segments of the Pro-life Freedom Rides Campaign:                         Friday Evening Assembly. SaturdayMorning Prayer Vigil. Caravan to the King Center, Atlanta. Closing Ceremony at the tomb of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.     Everyone may participate in the suggested "Freedom Ride Activities Nationwide."   Please review the schedule and event details below and at www.ProlifeFreedomRides.com.   Please register your participation at whatever level today, www.ProlifeFreedomRides.com and we hope to see many of you face to face in Birmingham and Atlanta, July 23-24.   We are united with you in proclaiming His freedom to every human person,     Fr. Frank Pavone National Director, Priests for Life     Dr. Alveda King Director, African American Outreach, Priests for Life   Event and Schedule Details   What: Pro-life Freedom Rides Campaign   Go to www.priestsforlife.org/action/10-06-18-onepageflier.pdf to download a single page flier to print and distribute (PDF) Download a two-sided flier to print and distribute (pdf) Front: www.priestsforlife.org/action/plfrtemplatefrontwocolor.pdf and Back:   www.priestsforlife.org/action/plfrtemplatebackwocolor.pdf    Where: Birmingham, Alabama and Atlanta, Georgia   When: Friday, July 23 – Saturday, July 24   Who: Dr. Alveda King, Fr. Frank Pavone, the Priests for Life Pastoral Team, and African-American Leaders from across the nation   Contact for further information: 718-980-4400 or toll free 1-888-735-3448 or email: mail@priestsforlife.org   Friday, July 23   7pm-9pm: Rally (Assembly/Concert) at Birmingham Jefferson County Convention Complex (BJCC) Theatre, 2100 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. North, Birmingham, AL 35203, 205.458.8400 / www.bjcc.org – (detailed information for the BJCC and Greater Birmingham)   Saturday, July 24   9am-11am: Prayer Vigil at Killing Center. Planned Parenthood: 1211 27th Place South, Birmingham, AL 35205   11:30am: Pro-life Freedom Ride Caravan departs Birmingham for Atlanta (An invited group of pro-life leaders will ride in the Freedom Ride bus. Interested pro-life activists and families are welcome to drive in their own vehicles in this pro-life caravan. We will drive (without stopping) the 2 and ½ hour drive to Atlanta. Vehicles may join up with or leave the caravan at any time as they need to.   4:00pm (ET) – Pro-life Service at the tomb of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. at the King Center in Atlanta, 450 Auburn Avenue Northeast Atlanta, GA 30312, 404 893-9882 / www.thekingcenter.org  Refreshments to follow.   Those traveling to Birmingham may make accommodations at:   Sheraton Birmingham Hotel: *Special Rates for Pro-Life Freedom Riders Available until July 5* Reserve online at www.starwoodmeeting.com/Book/prolifefreedom   2101 Richard Arrington, Jr., Blvd. North Birmingham, AL  35203 205-324-5000 (Be sure to mention "Pro-Life Freedom Rides") More Hotel Listings: www.bjcc.org/attending_an_event.php?page=hotels    Airport Information:   Birmingham Shuttlesworth International Airport, www.bhamintlairport.com  Hartsfield Jackson-Atlanta International Airport, www.atlanta-airport.com    *The Eternal Word Television Network is minutes away from downtown Birmingham: 205.271.2900 / www.ewtn.com   *Visit the Historic Birmingham Civil Rights District: www.birminghamal.org/ttd-aframheritage.html

 

How Would Kagan Rule on Taxpayer-Funded Abortion

30 Years After Harris v. McRae, Landmark Decision Holds New Significance During Kagan Confirmation Hearings

WASHINGTON, June 30 /Christian Newswire/ -- On June 30, 1980 - 30 years ago today - Americans United for Life (AUL) successfully defended the Hyde Amendment before the U.S. Supreme Court in the landmark case Harris v. McRae, resolving a four-year legal battle to ensure that Congress may prohibit taxpayer dollars from funding abortion. 

The Kagan tie-in? 

Harris v. McRae has prevented taxpayer-funded abortion under Medicaid for three decades, and established a legislative standard set by the Hyde Amendment. This narrow 5-4 decision has had a major impact on an issue upon which seven out of ten voters agree - public funds should not be used for abortion. 

Dr. Charmaine Yoest, President and CEO of Americans United for Life, reminded supporters in a speech last week, "We won Harris v. McRae with one vote." 

Among those who opposed the decision were Justice John Paul Stevens, whose seat President Obama proposes to fill with Elena Kagan, and Justice Thurgood Marshall, for whom Kagan clerked and has repeatedly singled out as someone she admires. Marshall, an advocate of unrestricted abortion, thought that a judge should "do what [he] thinks is right and let the law catch up." 

Elena Kagan's record as a pro-abortion political operative who has pre-judged the abortion issue clearly demonstrates that she would use her position as a judge to impose her extreme views upon the American people, rather than impartially interpreting the law. 

Dr. Yoest, who is scheduled to testify tomorrow before the Senate Judiciary Committee, will raise this critical point. 

Today, with a full day of questioning ahead, Senators need to ask Elena Kagan what she thinks of Harris v. McRae. Will she respect this precedent or will she, like her hero Aharon Barak, "adapt the law to life's changing needs"? 

Brief Background of Harris v. McRae: 

In 1976, Congress passed the Hyde Amendment, which prevents the use of certain federal tax dollars to pay for abortion. Cora McRae challenged the Hyde Amendment, taking action against Patricia Harris, then Secretary of Health and Human Services. On June 30, 1980, the U.S. Supreme Court held that the funding restrictions of the Hyde Amendment were constitutional. 

Harris v. McRae is a landmark decision because it ensures that Congress can prohibit the use of taxpayer funds for abortion. 

Americans United for Life (AUL) is a nonprofit, public-interest law and policy organization whose vision is a nation in which everyone is welcomed in life and protected in law. The first national pro-life organization in America, AUL has been committed to defending human life through vigorous judicial, legislative, and educational efforts at both the federal and state levels since 1971. 

AUL's legal team has been involved in every pro-life case before the U.S. Supreme Court including the successful defense of the Hyde Amendment. AUL also publishes Defending Life, the most comprehensive state-by-state legal guide of its kind, which is distributed annually to legislators across the nation. 

Recently, Americans United for Life detailed the facts on taxpayer-funding of abortion during the debate over federal health care legislation, provided legal assistance to states working to opt out of abortion provisions created by federal health care law, and has played a major role in educating policymakers on the record of Supreme Court nominee Elena Kagan.

TERRI'S NEWSLETTER:

Letter from Terri's BrotherWeek of June 28, 2010 Dear Friends, As you know, Terri's Foundation continues to help fight for those unable to fight for themselves and receives calls regularly from families in need of help when a loved one's life is at risk. In the next few months we will be participating in several speaking events/conferences continuing our efforts to educate the general public. Not only will we be addressing the issues surrounding Terri's deliberate dehydration death, but will also speak about the lives of the cognitively impaired that remain in the cross hairs of a growing and aggressive pro-death agenda taking place in our nation today. In particular, is the troubling news regarding our federal government now controlling our healthcare. Just recently, my mother and I attended the National Right to Life Conference in Pittsburgh, PA. The picture included was taken from this annual event held last week. Not only did we have the opportunity to speak with many of our loyal supporters, and friends, but I was invited to be part of workshop, along with Franciscan Brother, Paul O'Donnell, to speak about Terri's Legacy and the work of Terri's Foundation. I was also blessed to be asked to speak once again to an inspiring group of teens that were also attending this year event. It was not only another wonderful conference, but extremely important considering the times we live in. We are already looking forward to participating in next year's conference that is scheduled to be held in Jacksonville, FL. New Website Coming Soon! In the next few weeks the Foundation website will be changing! Therefore, please continue to visit terrisfight.org to see Terri's Foundation websites fresh, new look! Thank You! As always, forwarding our updates to your friends and family helps to spread the word . . . So please be sure to share our info with your loved ones. On behalf of my family, we would like to sincerely thank you for your continued prayers and support. Sincerely, Bobby Schindler

We Need Your Support! Terri's Foundation fights every day for the families faced with trying to protect their loved ones from a strong euthanasia movement. Please consider making a gift to Terri's Foundation today. Without your support, we could not continue to be in a position to educate those on health care reform, futile care, assisted suicide and so much more. But more importantly, donating today to Terri's Foundations will help save lives and give families a much needed voice! Thank you! Click here to donate to Terri's Foundation today! The Terri Schindler Schiavo Foundation is a 501(c)(3) public charity. Your contribution is tax deductible to the extent allowed by law

Impatience with Patients Who Won't Die  From May 25, 2010 (Washington Times) The last time I saw my father he was standing on his stoop, sweetly smiling and waving goodbye. As we backed out of his driveway, I thought about how healthy he looked and how grateful I was that my children and I had seen him this way once again. Had it been up to a hospital nurse 12 months earlier, Dad would have been dead. It is important that you know just how vulnerable you and your loved ones are to a system of medical care that is abandoning its promise not to "give advice which may cause death." (continue reading...) Related Story: (read article on "Futile Care Theory"...)

Judie Brown: "Fetal pain, maternal suffering, or human rights?"

 

Judie Brown

Fetal pain, maternal suffering, or human rights?

Judie Brown
June 30, 2010

In what can only be described as extremely dubious assertion, the United Kingdom's Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists http://www.christian.org.uk/news/docs-claim-that-abortions-dont-hurt-unborn-babies/ is claiming that the preborn baby cannot feel pain until 24 weeks after his life begins. In the wake of this report, "the http://www.foxnews.com/world/2010/06/25/uk-medical-group-says-fetus-feel-pain-weeks-need-change-abortion-law/ American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists has said it knows of no legitimate evidence that shows a fetus can experience pain."

If that were not enough to remind us of callous disregard for human beings, we also learned that ahttp://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/woman/real_life/3029012/Woman-who-had-an-abortion-because-of-morning-sickness.html 34-year-old mother in Britain and her husband, parents of a five-year-old child, aborted their second baby due to the mother's severe morning sickness.

To read the article, click here:
http://www.renewamerica.com/columns/brown/100630

 

 

 

 

 

--
"May the Lord grant all your prayers!" (Psalm 20)
Deacon John
http://www.google.com/profiles/deaconjohn1987

LifeNews.com Pro-Life News Report 6/30/10

LifeNews.com Pro-Life News Report
Wednesday, June 30, 2010

For pro-life news updated throughout the day, visit LifeNews.com.

Current Headlines

• Kagan Defends Expansive Health Exception on Abortion During Senate Hearing
• Kagan Tells Senate She Implemented Clinton's Views, She Promoted Abortion
• Senate Hears Elena Kagan Still Favors International Law for Judicial Rulings
• Pro-Life Advocates to Testify Thursday on Pro-Abortion Nominee Elena Kagan
• Catholic Bishops Tell Congress: Don't Turn Military Hospitals in Abortion Ctrs
• When Toys Are Valuable: Toy Story 3 Affirms Pro-Life Message of Value in Life
• Pro-Life Candidate Vitter Leads in Louisiana, Johnson Trails in Wisconsin
• New Jersey Legislature, Governor Christie Fight Over Funds to Abortion Ctrs
• Vandals Hit Pro-Life Advocates in Iowa, New Mexico With Graffiti, Egg Attacks
• Rhode Island Treasurer Candidate Gina Raimondo Has Pro-Abortion Support
• News: Fertility Center, Ohio, Methodist Church, England, Tasmania, Euthanasia

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Kagan Defends Expansive Health Exception on Abortion During Senate Hearing
Washington, DC (LifeNews.com) -- Abortion advocate Elena Kagan defended expansive life and health exceptions on abortion during the Senate Judiciary Committee hearings today on her nomination to the Supreme Court. The health exception is the part of the Roe v. Wade and Doe v. Bolton decisions responsible for allowing unlimited abortions.

In those 1973 decisions, the high court essentially paved the way for legalized abortion for any reason throughout pregnancy -- even though legal abortions claim women's lives and cause them numerous physical and mental health problems.

During questioning today, pro-abortion Sen. Diane Feinstein of California asked Kagan, "Do you believe that the constitution requires that the health of the mother be upheld?"

"With respect to abortion generally, I think that the continuing holdings of the Court are that a woman's life and women's health must be protected in any abortion legislation," Kagan responded.

However, the majority of the members of the Supreme Court think differently and, in the 2007 ruling in Gonzalez v. Carhart, they determined that the national ban on partial-birth abortions did not need a health exception that would have rendered the ban meaningless and allowed all such abortions to remain legal.

Michael Ciccocioppo, the director of the Pennsylvania Pro-Life Federation, says the testimony from Kagan to this point shows "it is clear that Ms. Kagan would be a judicial activist who would read things into the Constitution that simply aren't there." Full story at LifeNews.com

Kagan Tells Senate She Implemented Clinton's Views, But She Promoted Abortion
Washington, DC (LifeNews.com) -- During the Senate hearings today on her nomination to become the next member of the Supreme Court, pro-abortion activist Elena Kagan told lawmakers she attempted to implement former President Bill Clinton's views when she worked for him during his administration.

However, Senate Republicans point LifeNews.com to a memo calling Clinton's views on the partial-birth abortion ban a "problem."

Kagan ultimately went on to ignore and essentially manipulate an opinion form a medical group that said the gruesome abortion procedure was never necessary to protect the health of a woman.

"I worked for President Bill Clinton and we tried to implement his policy views and objectives," Kagan told the Senate Judiciary Committee today.

The Senate Republican conference is objecting to that statement and sent out a factsheet pointing to a memo Kagan wrote on February 5, 1996.

"Attached is a memo from Leon, Jack, George and Nancy-Ann Min on the partial birth abortion bill, setting forth four policy options and attaching a proposed letter to Senator Hatch. DOJ believes that only Option 4 is constitutional, while our Counsel s office believes any of Options 2-4 are constitutionally sound. In essence these are the options," the memo reads.

The first option would have had the administration saying partial-birth abortions soul be legal unless the woman's pregnancy presents health problems, essentially keeping all partial-birth abortions legal because the health exception wouldn't prohibit any of them.

After hearing Clinton himself favored that option, Kagan called the stance a "problem," likely because the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists said an expert panel it commissioned could find no medical reason why the partial-birth abortion procedure would ever be used to protect a woman's life or health. Full story at LifeNews.com

Senate Hears Elena Kagan Still Favors International Law for Judicial Rulings
Washington, DC (LifeNews.com) -- Members of the Senate Judiciary Committee heard testimony from pro-abortion Supreme Court nominee Elena Kagan today that she still favors the use of international law in American jurisprudence. That has concerned pro-life groups worried that it will further entrench legalized abortion.

As LifeNews.com reported in May, Americans United for Life said it worried Kagan could use it as another basis to support legal abortions.

The use of foreign law in defending unlimited abortion "rights" as laid out in Roe v. Wade is nothing new for the pro-life movement. It came up during the confirmation hearings on pro-abortion Justice Sonia Sotomayor, who pledged not to use it.

"There are some cases in which the citation of foreign law, or international law, might be appropriate," Kagan said today in a response to a question from pro-life Sen. Chuck Grassley.

The Iowa lawmaker asked: "If cofirmed, would you rely on or cite international foreign law when you decide cases?"

She added that she is "in favor of good ideas coming from wherever you can get them" and said "there are a number of circumstances" when foreign law might be appropriate. Full story at LifeNews.com

Pro-Life Advocates to Testify Thursday on Pro-Abortion Nominee Elena Kagan
Washington, DC (LifeNews.com) -- After senators finish their job of asking pro-abortion Supreme Court nominee Elena Kagan a plethora of questions about her legal views, they will hear from legal experts activists and people who have strong views about Kagan from both sides of the political divide.

When they do, they will hear from two pro-life leaders: Family Research Council president Tony Perkins and Americans United for Life president Charmaine Yoest.

According to the official witness list released by the committee, Perkins and Yoest are the only members of any abortion-related groups slated to testify -- and pro-abortion groups like NARAL and Planned Parenthood will not have a representative addressing the panel.

Both have agreed to speak as official Senate witnesses, invited by Republican members of the Senate Judiciary Committee, on Thursday afternoon.

"Less than a dozen or so non-members are called upon to speak, so it is a distinct honor--and opportunity--for FRC as we work to highlight just how extreme this administration is in its policies and personnel," Perkins told LifeNews.com about his speaking.

Perkins says pro-life advocates know Kagan's "credentials will help this administration steer the court into a new level of liberal social activism. That will be among FRC's primary concerns during my testimony at this week's hearings." Full story at LifeNews.com

Catholic Bishops Tell Congress: Don't Turn Military Hospitals in Abortion Centers
Washington, DC (LifeNews.com) -- The nation's Catholic bishops have a message for members of Congress: don't turn American taxpayer-funded military base hospitals into abortion centers. They are oppose language in a Senate bill that would overturn the ban on abortions at the approximately 250 military base hospitals.

Sen. Roland Burris attached an amendment to a bill in the Senate Armed Services Committee that received a 15-12 vote.

All Democrats supported it except for Sen. Ben Nelson of Nebraska, who joined all of the committee's Republicans in opposition.

In a June 29 letter to members of the Senate, Cardinal Daniel DiNardo of Galveston-Houston, the chairman of the U.S. bishops Committee on Pro-Life Activities, said authorizing abortions at military hospitals in this country and around the world is misguided.

He urged lawmakers to vote for an expected amendment that would remove the Burris language from the National Defense Authorization Act (S. 3454).

Cardinal DiNardo said it was disingenuous to suggest, as the amendment s proponents have, that the amendment is moderate in requiring patients at military facilities to pay for their abortions.

Which is a more direct governmental involvement in abortion: That the government reimburses someone else for having done an abortion, or that the government performs the abortion itself and accepts payment for doing so? the Cardinal wrote. Full story at LifeNews.com

When Toys Are Valuable: Toy Story 3 Affirms Pro-Life Message of Value in Life
by Paul Stark
One theme (of many) running through Toy Story 3, currently the top movie at the box office, is the conflict over "toy nature," so to speak -- the nature, purpose and value of the toy characters.

The toys' owner is all grown up and leaving for college, and they face an existential crisis. Without a child to play with them, what are they supposed to do? Are they unwanted? Will they be thrown out? Full story at LifeNews.com

The Value of Life Project. See a preview of this unique animated video illustrating the miracle of a baby s development and help fund the completion of this unique project. The final DVD will be available for elementary schools. View the trailer at www.lumen.tv and help complete/distribute the DVD.

Pro-Life Candidate Vitter Leads in Louisiana, Johnson Trails in Wisconsin
Washington, DC (LifeNews.com) -- New polls of two key Senate races shows a pro-life candidate leading in Louisiana while another pro-life candidate trails in Wisconsin. The surveys have Sen. David Vitter ahead in Wisconsin while Ron Johnson is behind pro-abortion Sen. Russ Feingold in a marquee matchup in Wisconsin.

Louisiana s race for the U.S. Senate looks largely the same way it has since the beginning of the year, with incumbent Republican David Vitter continuing to earn over 50% of the vote.

The latest Rasmussen Reports telephone survey of likely voters finds Vitter, who is seeking a second six-year term, with 53% support.

His Democratic challenger, Congressman Charlie Melancon, picks up 35% of the vote while three percent favor another candidate and nine percent are undecided.

Vitter has a 100 percent pro-life voting record from the National Right to Life Committee while Melancon has voted right on pro-life issues but upset the organization with his vote on the DISCLOSE Act, which would place stringent limits on the ability of pro-life groups to inform the public about legislative and political happenings.

Meanwhile, a new Public Policy Polling institute survey of the Wisconsin Senate race finds it is looking more and more likely that Wisconsin will be in the top tier of competitive Senate races this fall. Full story at LifeNews.com

New Jersey Legislature, Governor Christie Fight Over Funds to Abortion Centers
Trenton, NJ (LifeNews.com) -- When Governor Chris Christie ran for office last year, he campaigned on a pro-life platform and he is making good on his promise to advocate life. At present, he is skirmishing with Democrats in the state legislature over the millions in taxpayer funds the state sends abortion centers for family planning.

Although the money doesn't directly fund abortions, Christie thinks there's little reason to send the abortion centers $7.5 million when the state currently faces an $11 billion deficit.

Christie's state budget removed the millions in funding for the abortion businesses but Democrats, last Thursday, voted to restore the health and family planning services via a supplemental funding bill. The Democrat-controlled Assembly and Senate chambers both set up battles with the governor by passing the bill restoring the funds.

The money goes to 58 family planning clinics but Planned Parenthood, the nation's largest abortion chain, runs 29 of the facilities.

Assemblyman Jay Webber, a Republican, last week surprised his colleagues by reading a Planned Parenthood brochure advocating teenage sexual relations and he disputed the contention that the money saves lives. "It's wrong to put a price tag on children. Children are our future. We want more children, not less,'' he said. Full story at LifeNews.com

Vandals Hit Pro-Life Advocates in Iowa, New Mexico With Graffiti, Egg Attacks
Dubuque, IA (LifeNews.com) -- Pro-abortion vandals have hit pro-life advocates in two states -- Iowa and New Mexico. In the former, a member of Dubuque County Right to Life was victimized by having his property spray-painted with pro-abortion graffiti; in the latter, a pro-life group's truck and the home of its driver were pelted with eggs.

In Iowa, Allen Troupe reported last week that his home was spray-painted with the phrases support abortion and baby killer" -- causing about $100 worth of damages.

He told the local newspaper he believes he was targeted because he has a sign in his window reading: Planned Parenthood: Bad for Dubuque."

I don't care what side you're on, there are some things that are just never right, he told the Telegraph Herald.

"This is outrageous and I think there should be a little more attention. I realize some jerk out there will get their 15 minutes of fame, but I believe it speaks again to the disparity of violence against pro-lifers versus the other way around," Steven Brody, the local Right to Life president, said about the incident.

Meanwhile, in Albuquerque, New Mexico, a truck belonging to Operation Rescue and its driver's home were vandalized after an unknown assailant egged them. Full story at LifeNews.com

Rhode Island Treasurer Candidate Gina Raimondo Has Pro-Abortion Support
Providence, RI (LifeNews.com) -- With major election battles across the country for congressional and higher offices in play this November, why would one of the nation's top pro-abortion groups concern itself with a race for treasurer in Rhode Island. That's the question on the mind of the head of the state's pro-life group.

Emily's List, which spends tens of millions on races every election cycle, is endorsing Rhode Island General Treasurer candidate Gina Raimondo.

Raimondo faces no Democratic primary opposition for the September contest after winning the endorsement of the Rhode Island Democratic Party. She is running to replace Frank Caprio, who is seeking the Democratic nomination for governor.

Barth Bracy, the director of Rhode Island Right to Life, tells LifeNews.com he suspects Emily's List is backing Raimondo because the pro-abortion groups wants to position her for a run for higher office in the future.

My hunch is that neither EMILY s List nor Ms. Raimondo care much at all about the position of General Treasurer. EMILY s List and their hand-picked candidate, Ms. Raimondo, see this race as stepping stone to some higher office," he said.

What Bracy knows for certain is that Raimondo is a staunch abortion advocate given Emily's List's endorsement. Full story at LifeNews.com

Fertility Center Fined for Giving Woman Wrong Embryos, Destroys Them Later
Hartford, CT (LifeNews.com) -- A woman who sought help from a prominent Connecticut fertility center last year received human embryos for a pregnancy, but they belonged to another woman with the same last name.
The mistake happened in April 2009 at the Center for Advanced Reproductive Services at the University of Connecticut Health Center, which will pay a $3,000 fine.

Ohio Pro-Abortion Governor Strickland Leads Pro-Life John Kasich, For Now
Columbus, OH (LifeNews.com) -- A new poll shows pro-abortion Ohio Gov. Ted Strickland retains a lead over pro-life challenger John Kasich. But that lead may not hold once voters have a chance to learn more about Kasich, a former congressman.


British Methodist Church Votes to Clarify, But Not Change, Position for Abortion
London, England (LifeNews.com) -- The Methodist Church of Great Britain voted at its annual conference to clarify, but not change, its position favoring legalized abortion. The church, whose U.S. counterpart also backs abortion, opposes abortion on demand but also says abortions before viability are morally okay.

Tasmania, Australia Will Try to Legalize Euthanasia Will Draw Opposition
Tasmania, Australia (LifeNews.com) -- The Australian state of Tasmania is expected to have a bill introduced to legalize euthanasia, according to ABC. The Tasmanian Government is hoping its voluntary euthanasia legislation will be ready by the end of next year.

Full story at LifeNews.com

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